The Bon Marché was founded in 1890 by German immigrants Edward and Josephine Nordhoff. Originally located in Seattle’s Belltown district at First Ave and Cedar Street, it soon moved to a more central location downtown at Second and Pike Streets. By 1901 it had expanded to an entire block as seen here in this 1908 photograph of the Great White Fleet (Atlantic Fleet) parade. The Fleet was sent by President Teddy Roosevelt on a peacetime goodwill tour around the world beginning December 16, 1907 and ending February 22, 1909. The parade in Seattle had an attendance of over 300,000 people and included members of the Army, National Guard, and fraternal orders.

Handwritten on verso: July 4 or Teddy Roosevelt’s visit to Seattle? 2 buildings at 2nd and Pike, 4 story on right and 5 story in middle of block, circa 1906-1910 Looking southwest

• Subjects (LCTGM): Department stores--Washington (State)—Seattle;"; Bon Marché (Department Store)""; Parades & processions--Washington (State)--Seattle;"; Military parades & ceremonies--Washington (State)--Seattle;"; Spectators--Washington (State)--Seattle;"; Commercial streets--Washington (State)--Seattle;"; Business districts--Washington (State)--Seattle;"; Festive decorations--Washington (State)--Seattle;"; Crowds--Washington (State)--Seattle